CHAPTER 1 MOLDED RUBBER PRODUCTS

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of this section is to provide a method for standard- Although rubber manufacturers can produce products to high
izing drawing designations for specific design requirements of standards of precision, they welcome the opportunity to suggest
molded rubber products. Information set forth on the pages that modifications which would reduce costs. The purchasers of mold-
follow should be helpful to the design engineer in setting up real- ed rubber products can assist to this end by furnishing the manu-
istic specifications for molded rubber products. facturers with details covering the application of their parts.
The use of proper drawing designations by designers in speci- The scope of this section presents to the user the tolerances and
fying on drawings exactly what is required is a matter of para- standards the rubber manufacturers are normally able to maintain.
mount importance. Proper use of these drawing designations by These tolerances may be described as shown in this manual or by
both product designer and rubber manufacturers will result in a geometric tolerancing as shown in the ASME Y14.5M standard.
common understanding of the design requirements which must be
engineered into molded rubber products. To assure a uniform Note: Where the term “Rubber” is used in this section, it is
method for use on drawings and in specifications, the drawing intended to include synthetic thermosetting elastomers as well as
designations on the following pages have been standardized by the natural rubber. This information may also be suitable for products
Rubber Manufacturers Association for use in the molded rubber made from thermoplastic elastomers.
field.
SUMMARY AND EXAMPLES OF RMA DRAWING DESIGNATIONS
MOLDED RUBBER PRODUCTS
DRAWING DESIGNATIONS
The design engineer should select and designate on the drawing a separate RMA designation for each characteristic noted. Relative
dimensions, bonding, spring rate or load-deflection characteristic are to be used only when applicable. (See examples below.) If no des-
ignation is specified, the rubber manufacturer will assume that commercial tolerances apply.
Table 1 - Summary of RMA Drawing Designations

Bonding Load-Deflection
Dimensional (Specify Grade Characteristic
Relative Finish Flash Extension Packaging
Tolerances and Method on (Specify only
Dimensions (Table 6) (Table 7) (Table 11)
(Tables 2-5) B1 and B2) when needed)
(Tables 8 & 9) (Table 10)

A1 F1 T.00mm T.000 B1 D1 P1
A2 No designation, see F2 T.08mm T.003 B2 D2 P2
A3 text and/or your F3 T.40mm T.016 B3 D3 P3
A4 rubber supplier. F4 T.80mm T.032 B4 -- --
-- Specify only when -- T1.60mm T.063 B5 -- --
-- needed. -- T2.35mm T.093 -- -- --
-- -- T∞ T∞ -- -- --

Example 1:
Commercial tolerances; commercial finish; flash extension
.80mm (.032 in.) would be designated on the drawing as follows:
RMA A3-F3-T.80mm (.032 in.).
Example 2:
Precision tolerances; commercial finish; flash extension .80mm
(.032 in.) and special agreement on bonding to metal would be
designated on the drawing as follows: RMA A2-F3-T.80mm
(.032 in.) - B5.
Example 3:
Basic tolerances; commercial finish; flash extension .80mm
(.032 in.) would be designated on the drawing as follows: RMA
A4-F3-T.80mm (.032 in.).
Example 4:
Precision tolerances; good finish; flash very close; (bond sam-
ples tested to 16kN/m (90 lbs./in.) width to destruction) would be
designated on the drawing as follows: RMA A2-F2-T.40mm
(.016 in.) - B2 Grade 1 Method B.

3 RMA MO-1 (2005)

 STANDARDS FOR DIMENSIONAL TOLERANCES
FACTORS AFFECTING TOLERANCES
Introduction
The purpose of this section is to list some of the factors affect-
ing tolerances. In general, the degree of reproducibility of dimen-
sions depends upon the type of tooling and rubber used, and the
state of the art.
DISCUSSION OF FACTORS AFFECTING
TOLERANCES
There are many factors involved in the manufacturing of mold-
ed rubber products which affect tolerances. Since these may be
peculiar to the rubber industry, they are listed here.
Shrinkage
Shrinkage is defined as the difference between corresponding
linear dimensions of the mold and of the molded part, both meas-
urements being made at room temperature. All rubber materials
exhibit some amount of shrinkage after molding when the part
cools. However, shrinkage of the compound is also a variable in
itself and is affected by such things as material specification, cure
time, temperature, pressure, inserts, and post cure. The mold
designer and the compounder must determine the amount of
shrinkage for the selected compound and incorporate this
allowance into the mold cavity size. Even though the mold is built
to anticipate shrinkage, there remains an inherent variability
which must be covered by adequate dimensional tolerance.
Shrinkage of rubber is a volume effect. Complex shapes in the
molded product or the presence of inserts may restrict the lineal
shrinkage in one direction and increase it in another. The skill of
the rubber manufacturer is always aimed at minimizing these vari-
ables, but they cannot be eliminated entirely.
Mold Design
Molds can be designed and built to varying degrees of preci-
sion, but not at the same cost. With any type of mold, the mold
builder must have some tolerance, and therefore, each cavity will
have some variance from the others. Dimensional tolerances on
the product must include allowances for this fact. The accuracy of
the mold register must also be considered. This is the matching of
the various plates of the mold that form the mold cavity. Register
is usually controlled by dowel pins and bushings or by self-regis-
tering cavities. For molds requiring high precision in dimensions
and register, the design work and machining must be more precise
and the cost of the molds will be greater than one with commer-
cial requirements.
RMA MO-1 (2005)
Trim and Finish
The objectives of trimming and finishing operations are to
remove rubber material -- such as flash, which is not a part of the
finished product. Often this is possible without affecting important
dimensions, but in other instances, some material is removed from
the part itself. Where thin lips or projections occur at a mold part-
ing line, mechanical trimming may actually control the finished
dimension.
Inserts
Most insert materials (metal, plastic, fabric, etc.) have their
own standard tolerances. When designing inserts for molding to
rubber, other factors must be considered, such as fit in the mold
cavities, location of the inserts with respect to other dimensions,
proper hole spacing to match with mold pins, and the fact that
inserts at room temperature must fit into a heated mold. In these
matters, the rubber manufacturer can be of service in advising on
design features.
Distortion
Because rubber is a flexible material, its shape can be affected
by temperature. Distortion can occur when the part is removed
from the mold or when it is packed for shipment. This distortion
makes it difficult to measure the parts properly. Some of the dis-
tortion can be minimized by storing the part as unstressed as pos-
sible for 24 hours at room temperature. Some rubber will crystal-
ize (stiffen) when stored at low temperature and must be heated to
above room temperature to overcome this condition.
Environmental Storage Conditions
Temperature: Rubber, like other materials, changes in dimension
with changes in temperature. Compared to other materials the
coefficient of expansion of rubber is high. To have agreement in
the measurement of products that are critical or precise in dimen-
sion, it is necessary to specify a temperature at which the parts are
to be measured and the time required to stabilize the part at that
temperature.
Humidity: Some rubber materials absorb moisture. Hence the
dimensions are affected by the amount of moisture in the product.
For those products which have this property, additional tolerance
must be provided in the dimensions. The effect may be minimized
by stabilizing the product in an area of controlled humidity and
temperature for a period not less than 24 hours.
4
Dimension Terminology The level selected should be based upon the need with the fol-
lowing guidelines.
The following will provide a common terminology for use in
discussing dimensions of molded rubber products, and for distin- “A1” is the tightest tolerance classification and indicates a
guishing various tolerance groupings: high precision rubber product. Such products require expen-
sive molds, fewer cavities per mold, costly in-process con-
Fixed Dimension: Dimensions not affected by flash thickness trols and inspection procedures. It is desirable that the exact
variation. (Mold Closure) See Figure #1. method of measurement be agreed upon between rubber
Closure Dimensions: Dimensions affected by flash thickness manufacturer and customer, as errors in measurement may
variation. (Mold Closure) See Figure #1. be large in relation to the tolerance. Some materials, particu-
larly those requiring post curing, do not lend themselves to
Figure 1 Drawing Designation “A1” tolerances.
“A2” tolerances indicate a precision product. Molds must be
precision machined and kept in good repair. While measure-
ment methods may be simpler than the Drawing Designation
“A1”, careful inspection will usually be required.
“A3” tolerances indicate a “commercial” product and will
normally be used for most products.
“A4” tolerances apply to products where some dimensional
control is required but is secondary to cost.
When applying tolerances the following rules should be kept
in mind.

In addition to the shrinkage, mold maker’s tolerance, trim and 1. Fixed dimension tolerances apply individually to each
finish, a number of other factors affect closure dimensions. fixed dimension by its own size.
Among these are flow characteristics of the raw stock, weight, 2. Closure dimension tolerances are determined by the
shape of preform and molding process. largest closure dimension and this single tolerance is
While closure dimensions are affected by flash thickness vari- used for all other closure dimensions.
ation, they are not necessarily related to basic flash thickness. If a 3. Fixed and closure dimensions for a given table do not
manufacturer plans to machine or die trim a product, the mold will necessarily go together, and can be split between tables.
have a built-in flash, which will be thicker than if hand deflashing
or tumble trim were to be employed. Thus products purchased 4. Tolerances not shown should be determined in consulta-
from two sources could have different basic flash thickness at the tion with the rubber manufacturer.
parting line and yet meet drawing dimensions.
5. Care should be taken in applying standard tolerances to
There is usually a logical place for the mold designer to locate products having wide sectional variations.
the parting line for best dimensional control and part removal. If
the product design limits this location, an alternate mold construc-
tion will be required, which may affect the tolerance control on the
product, and may, in some cases, increase the cost of the mold.
Registration Dimension: Dimensions affected by the matching
of the various plates of the mold that form the mold cavity.
Register is usually controlled by dowel pins and bushings or by
self-registering cavities.

TOLERANCE TABLES
There are four levels of dimensional tolerances that are used for
molded rubber products.
“A1” High Precision
“A2” Precision
“A3” Commercial
“A4” Basic

5 RMA MO-1 (2005)

 Table 2 - Standard Dimensional Tolerance Table
Molded Rubber Products Drawing Designation “A1” High Precision
Size (mm) Fixed Closure Size (inches) Fixed Closure
Above Incl. Above Incl.
0 - 10 ±.10 ±.13 0 - .40 ±.004 ±.005
10 - 16 .13 .16 .40 - .63 .005 .006
16 - 25 .16 .20 .63 - 1.00 .006 .008
25 - 40 .20 .25 1.00 - 1.60 .008 .010
40 - 63 .25 .32 1.60 - 2.50 .010 .013
63 - 100 .32 .40 2.50 - 4.00 .013 .016
100 - 160 .40 .50 4.00 - 6.30 .016 .020

Table 3 - Standard Dimensional Tolerance Table

Molded Rubber Products Drawing Designation “A2” Precision
Size (mm) Fixed Closure Size (inches) Fixed Closure
Above Incl. Above Incl.
0 - 10 ±.16 ±.20 0 - .40 ±.006 ±.008
10 - 16 .20 .25 .40 - .63 .008 .010
16 - 25 .25 .32 .63 - 1.00 .010 .013
25 - 40 .32 .40 1.00 - 1.60 .013 .016
40 - 63 .40 .50 1.60 - 2.50 .016 .020
63 - 100 .50 .63 2.50 - 4.00 .020 .025
100 - 160 .63 .80 4.00 - 6.30 .025 .032
160 - & over 6.30 & over
multiply by .004 .005 multiply by .004 .005

Table 4 - Standard Dimensional Tolerance Table

Molded Rubber Products Drawing Designation “A3” Commercial
Size (mm) Fixed Closure Size (inches) Fixed Closure
Above Incl. Above Incl.
0 - 10 ±.20 ±.32 0 - .40 ±.008 ±.013
10 - 16 .25 .40 .40 - .63 .010 .016
16 - 25 .32 .50 .63 - 1.00 .013 .020
25 - 40 .40 .63 1.00 - 1.60 .016 .025
40 - 63 .50 .80 1.60 - 2.50 .020 .032
63 - 100 .63 1.00 2.50 - 4.00 .025 .040
100 - 160 .80 1.25 4.00 - 6.30 .032 .050
160 - & over 6.30 & over
multiply by .005 .008 multiply by .005 .008

Table 5 - Standard Dimensional Tolerance Table

Molded Rubber Products Drawing Designation “A4” Basic
Size (mm) Fixed Closure Size (inches) Fixed Closure
Above Incl. Above Incl.
0 - 10 ±.32 ±.80 0 - .40 ±.013 ±.032
10 - 16 .40 .90 .40 - .63 .016 .036
16 - 25 .50 1.00 .63 - 1.00 .020 .040
25 - 40 .63 1.12 1.00 - 1.60 .025 .045
40 - 63 .80 1.25 1.60 - 2.50 .032 .050
63 - 100 1.00 1.40 2.50 - 4.00 .040 .056
100 - 160 1.25 1.60 4.00 - 6.30 .050 .063
160 - & over 6.30 & over
multiply by .008 .010 multiply by .008 .010

RMA MO-1 (2005) 6

Measurement of Dimensions
Conditioning of Parts: Measurements of dimensions shall be
made on parts conditioned at least 24 hours after the molding
operation. Measurements shall be completed within 60 days after
shipment or before the part is put into use, whichever is the short-
er time. Care shall be taken to ensure that the parts are not subject-
ed to adverse storage conditions.
In the case of referee measurement, particularly on Drawing
Designation “A1” tolerances or for materials known to be sensi-
tive to variations in temperature or relative humidity, the parts in
question should be conditioned for a minimum of 24 hours at 23°
± 2° C (73.4° ± 3.6° F) and at 50% ± 5% relative humidity.
Methods of Measurement: Depending upon the characteristics
of the dimension to be measured, one or more of the following
methods of measurement may be used.
(A) A coordinate measuring machine (CMM) with a stylus size
appropriate for the smallest feature or dimension to be meas-
ured.
(B) A dial micrometer with a plunger size and loading as agreed
upon by the customer and the rubber manufacturer.
(C) A suitable optical measuring device.
(D) Fixed gauges appropriate to the dimensions being meas-
ured.
(E) Other methods agreed on between customer and supplier.
Under no circumstances should the part be distorted during
measurement. On dimensions which are difficult to measure or
which have unusually close tolerances, the exact method of meas-
urement should be agreed upon in advance by the rubber manufac-
turer and the customer.
CONCENTRICITY
Concentricity is the relationship of two or more circles or cir-
cular surfaces having a common center. It is designated as T.I.R.
(total indicator reading) and is the total movement of the hand of
an indicator set to record the amount that a surface varies from
being concentric.
All diameters formed in the same mold plate will be concentric
within 0.25mm TIR (.010 in. TIR).
Example:
In Fig. #2 diameter “A” will be concentric with diameter “B”
within 0.25mm TIR (.010 in. TIR)
Other diameters will be concentric within 0.75mm TIR (.030 in.
TIR).
Example:
In Fig. #2 diameter “A” or “B” will be concentric with diameter
“C” within 0.75mm TIR (.030 in. TIR).
7 RMA MO-1 (2005)
Relative Dimensions
General Information: Relative dimensions such as concentricity,
squareness, flatness, parallelism, or location of one or more inserts
in the product are dimensions described in relation to some other
dimension. Since it is impossible to foresee the many potential
designs of all molded products in which relative dimensions will
be specified, it is impractical to assign standard drawing tolerance
designations to these dimensions. The design engineer should rec-
ognize that the more precise the requirement, the more expensive
the product. He must allow the rubber manufacturer to use support
pins, lugs, chaplet pins, or ledges in the mold to provide positive
location and registration of the insert or inserts in the mold cavity.
With this in mind, it is suggested that the design engineer discuss
relative dimensional tolerances on all products directly with the
rubber manufacturer.
Other factors do affect tolerances to some minor degree. Our
attempt has been to acquaint the design engineer with background
information on the major factors which result in the need for tol-
erances on molded rubber products.
Examples of Relative Dimensions: Several examples of relative
dimensions the design engineer may be required to consider are
shown:
(A) Concentricity
(B) Squareness
(C) Flatness
(D) Parallelism
In all cases the tolerances should be considered only as a very
general guide.
Figure 2
Example: Figure 3
Fig. #3 Outside surface will be concentric with shaft within
0.75mm TIR (.030 in. TIR) plus metal tolerance if unground.
Note: Parts may be ground to closer tolerances.

Example: Figure 4
Fig. #4 Outside surface will be concentric with shaft within 2mm
TIR (.085 in. TIR) plus metal tolerance if unground.
Note: Parts may also be ground to closer tolerances.

Example: Figure 5
On products similar to that described in Fig. #5 having an outside
diameter of 75mm (3 in.) concentricity within 0.75mm TIR (.030
in. TIR) and wobble within 0.75mm TIR (.030 in. TIR) can be
expected.
Note: Wobble is a term used to identify movement of a surface
that is not intended to be parallel to the TIR axis of rotation.

SQUARENESS Figure 6
Squareness is the quality of being at an angle of 90° such as
“surface must be square with axis”. A tolerance of 2° should be
allowed for rubber surfaces that are not ground.
Rubber Product with Metal Insert
Example:
Rubber-to-metal product in Sketch 1 Fig. #6. Rubber surface B-B
is square with axis A-A as the angle is true 90°. Sketch 2 indicates
the same example with 2° tolerances exaggerated.
Note: This type of product requires closer control than is usually
normal with commercial products.

RMA MO-1 (2005) 8

FLATNESS Figure 7
Flatness of a surface on a part is the deviation from a true plane
or straight edge.
Rubber Product (Unground).
Molded Surfaces (unground) will be flat within 0.25mm
(.010 in.).
Example:
Fig. #7 On a cup as illustrated, the bottom can be concaved or con-
vexed by no more than 0.25mm (.010 in.).

Rubber Product with Metal Insert Figure 8

Surfaces that are ground after molding will be flat within
0.12mm (.005 in.). (Allowance must be made for removal of stock
during grinding operation.)
Example:
In Sketch 1 Fig. #8 after molding, deviation from the true plane
can be held to 0.25mm (.010 in.).
Example:
In Sketch 2 Fig. #8 after grinding, deviation can be held to
0.12mm (.005 in.) but dimension “H” will necessarily be affected.

PARALLELISM Figure 9
Parallelism is the relationship of surfaces in different planes. To
be parallel the planes passing through the surfaces must be equi-
distant from each other at all points when measured at 90° to the
planes.
Rubber Product with Metal Inserts.
Example:
In Sketch 1 Fig. #9 the plates of the sandwich mount are parallel.
In Sketch 2 Fig. #9 they are not. On such a part approximately
200mm (8 in.) square, parallelism to within 0.75mm (.030 in.) can
be expected.

9 RMA MO-1 (2005)

 STANDARDS FOR MOLD CAVITY FINISH AND
MOLDED PRODUCT APPEARANCE
Introduction
The purpose of this section is to list and discuss some of the
factors that have an effect on the finish and appearance of molded
products and to present standards covering four classes of finish to
be applied to the mold cavity surface.
Mold Release Used
There are certain rubber compounds that can be removed from
the mold with the use of little or no mold release lubricant, while
others require the use of a considerable quantity of mold release
lubricant. The latter may have the appearance of being oily.

FACTORS AFFECTING FINISH AND If the surface of the rubber product is to be bonded to other
APPEARANCE materials in its application or is to be painted, the designer should
designate this on the drawing so that the manufacturer may use a
Machined Finish of Mold mold release lubricant that will not impair adhesion quality.

The machined finish of the mold has considerable effect on the Flash Removal Method
surface finish or appearance of a rubber product.
Some of the many methods used to remove flash from rubber
The best finish can be obtained from a highly polished steel parts may affect the appearance of the finished product. As an
mold, free from all tool marks or other imperfections. Naturally, example, hand trimming will ordinarily have no effect, while tum-
this type of mold is quite expensive to construct and maintain and bling may result in a dull surface.
is not generally required unless surface finish is of paramount
importance from either an appearance or functional standpoint. In Method of Designation of Finish
addition, it may be desirable in some cases to chrome plate the The symbol “F” followed by an appropriate number selected
mold in order to maintain the required surface finish under pro- from Table 6 shall be used to designate the type of finish required.
duction conditions.
An arc enclosing the actual area included by this designation
The commercial type mold is a machined steel mold made to and a leader to the finish number designates the type of finish
conform to good machine shop practice. Machine tool marks will desired. The use of a finish symbol on the surface does not pre-
not ordinarily be polished out of this type mold. It should be noted clude the possibility that other surfaces may require different fin-
that regardless of how highly the mold itself is polished, the ishes. However, the use of a standard notation is desirable wher-
appearance of the rubber surface will depend to a large extent ever possible to eliminate the repetition of finish symbols and
upon the factors outlined in the following paragraphs. maintain simplicity. SEE FIG. #10.
Type of Rubber Material Used Always permit “Commercial Finish” (F-3) whenever possible.
The type of rubber material used can greatly affect the appear-
ance of the rubber product. Some compounds lend themselves to
a bright glossy surface while others may be dull as molded or Figure 10
become dulled very easily during handling or storage. Also, there
are some rubber compounds to which antiozonants are added to
impede attack from ozone. As these compounds age, the antiozo-
nants “bleed out”, giving the product a colored or waxy surface,
often referred to as “bloom”. This is a common practice and the
product should not be considered imperfect or defective in any
way. This or other specification requirements may make it impos-
sible to produce a product with a glossy surface.
Table 6 - RMA Drawing Designation for Finish
Drawing
Designation
A smooth, polished and uniform finish completely free of tool marks, dents, nicks and scratches, as produced from a
F1 highly polished steel mold. In areas where F1 is specified, the mold will be polished to a surface finish of 10 micro-
inches (250nm) or better.
A uniform finish as produced from a polished steel mold. In areas where F2 is specified, the mold will be polished to
F2
a surface finish of 32 micro-inches (800nm) or better but with very small tool marks not polished out.
Surfaces of the mold will conform to good machine shop practice and no micro-inch finish will be specified. This is
F3
“Commercial Finish”.
F4 Satin finish.

RMA MO-1 (2005) 10

 STANDARDS FOR FLASH
Introduction
It is the purpose of this section to list and discuss many of the
factors that have an effect on the amount of flash, to describe the
basic methods by which flash can be removed, and furnish the
means by which the designer can designate on the product draw-
ing the flash location and flash variation permissible.
Definition
(A) Flash.
Flash is excess rubber on a molded product. It results from cavity
overflow and is common to most molding operations. Flash has
two dimensions -- Extension and Thickness.
(B) Flash Extension.
Flash extension is the film of rubber projecting from the part along
the parting line of the mold.
(C) Flash Thickness.
Flash thickness is measured perpendicular to the mold parting
line. Variations in flash thickness are normally included in closure
tolerances.
General Information
A method for designating permissible flash extension and
thickness on a molded product will result in better understanding
between rubber manufacturer and consumer and benefit both. This
method must permit the designation of a surface where no parting
line is permissible. It must also designate areas where a parting
line is permissible and define the amount of flash extension toler-
able in such areas. The designer, without specific rubber process-
ing knowledge, should be able to specify flash extension limits in
any given area on this drawing. Use of RMA Drawing
Designations provided in this section will provide this capability;
however, the designer should not specify how flash is to be
removed. He should specify the amount of flash extension which
can be tolerated without impairing product function or appear-
ance. A method designating areas permitting flash and describing
flash extension tolerance will result in the following benefits:
(A) Avoid errors in mold design concerning parting line loca-
tion.
(B) Uniformity in appearance and function of molded products
supplied by more than one source.
(C) Simplification of inspection procedures.
(D) Reduce over-finishing or under-finishing products.
Molding techniques have been developed to produce “flash-
less” products. The mold parting line, depending on location on
the product, is barely discernible with no measurable thickness or
extension. Initial cost and maintenance of this tooling and equip-
ment is high and very close manufacturing control is required.
In instances where flash extension is not a problem or where it
is otherwise advantageous, parts are shipped as molded with no
flash removal necessary.
11
Methods for removing flash from products with metal or other
inserts are approximately the same as for non-inserted rubber
products. Rubber flash adhering tightly to inserts is generally
acceptable. If it must be removed, it is done by mechanical means
such as wire brushing, abrasive belts or spot facing. If adhered
rubber flash is not permissible, it should be so specified on the
drawing.
Flash removal is an important cost factor in producing finished
molded rubber products. Cost conscious designers will permit the
widest possible latitude in flash thickness, flash extension, and in
location of flash consistent with adequate function and appearance
of the product.
FACTORS AFFECTING FLASH
Flash Location
Parting lines (flash lines) must be located to facilitate part
removal from the mold cavity after curing.
Flash Thickness
Flash thickness is determined in the molding operation and
may vary with mold design, closing pressure, with weight and
shape of preform, and type of compound used -- and many lesser
factors. Normal variations in flash thickness have been taken into
account in the tables set up for closure tolerances, and this will
receive no further consideration.
The designer should be aware that heavy or thick flash is fre-
quently designed to facilitate removal of parts from the mold and
to facilitate subsequent handling. In this regard the maximum
thickness that can be tolerated without impairing the product func-
tion or appearance should be specified.
Flash Extension
There are many methods by which flash extension on rubber
products can be removed. The particular method selected will be
determined by the degree of flash extension permitted as well as
by flash location, flash thickness, and other factors. Some of the
more common methods of flash removal are as follows:
(A) Buffing
A moving abrasive surface material is applied to the rubber part to
remove excess rubber by abrasive action.
(B) Die Trim
A cutting tool, shaped to the contour of the molded product at the
parting line, is applied with a force perpendicular to the flash
extension and against either a flat plate or a fitted shape. This cre-
ates a shearing or pinching action removing the excess flash. Die
trim can be done with a hand or machine mounted die. Machine
mounted dies are often used for multiple trimming of small uni-
formly shaped products from multi-cavity molds.
(C) Machine Trim
Flash is removed by passing the rubber part through machine
mounted rotating or reciprocating cutting tools. These devices are
customarily adapted to a particular product and may shear, saw, or
skive the flash away.
RMA MO-1 (2005)
(D) Tumble Trim
There are two basic types of tumble trimming. Both utilize a rotat-
ing barrel or drum in which the heavier rubber sections strike the
thinner and more fragile flash breaking it free. Dry tumbling at
room temperature is most effective with the higher durometer
“hard” compounds. The other type of tumbling utilizes carbon
dioxide or nitrogen to freeze the molded parts, thus making the
compound more brittle so the flash will break more readily. Any
tumbling operation will have an effect on surface finish.
(E) Mechanical Deflashing
Modern deflashing machines utilize an abrasive medium, tum-
bling, and a refrigerant for quick freezing. The time and tempera-
ture are closely controlled while the parts are agitated in an
enclosed barrel. Refrigerant (usually carbon dioxide or nitrogen)
is metered into the deflashing chamber while the parts are being
impinged with a mechanically agitated abrasive medium. The
flash, being thin, freezes first and is broken away by the abrasive
medium and the tumbling action before the heavier rubber part
itself has lost its resiliency. Some loss of surface finish may be
expected and some of the abrasive medium may adhere to the
molded parts.
(F) Pull Trim or Tear Trim
A very thin flash extension is molded immediately adjacent to the
part and a thicker flash is molded adjacent to the thin flash but far-
ther from the part. When the flash is pulled from the molded part,
it separates at its thinnest point adjacent to the molded part. This
method may result in a sawtooth or irregular appearance and it is
limited to certain compounds and product designs.
(G) Hand Trim
Flash is removed by an expedient method using hand tools such as
knives, scissors, razor blades or skiving knives.
Method of Designation of Flash
Extension
The symbol “T” with a notation in hundredths of a millimeter for
the maximum extension shall be used. Example: T .80mm.
(.80mm maximum extension permitted.) IF ENGLISH DIMEN-
SION THE DRAWING DESIGNATION WILL NOT BE FOL-
LOWED BY ANY LETTERS. EXAMPLE T .032.
Thickness
The flash thickness may be specified following the extension limit
if it is critical to the function of the part. Closure tolerances will
apply as in tables 2, 3, 4, and 5 on page 6.
Location
An arc enclosing the actual area included by this designation and
a leader to the trim symbol designates the maximum allowable
flash extension and thickness thus enclosed. If no flash can be tol-
erated in a given area, the symbol “T” .00mm is used. SEE FIG.
#11.
Standards
The designer may indicate on his drawing any amount of maxi-
mum flash extension permissible. However, as a matter of sim-
plicity, a progression of flash extension Drawing Designations is
suggested in Table 7. Only those areas requiring such a designa-
tion should be specified. The use of a standard note can frequent-
ly be used with no further notation. SEE FIG. #11.
Figure 11

Table 7 - RMA Drawing Designation for Flash Extension

Drawing
Designation
(T .000) No flash permitted on area designated. (Standard notation regarding other surfaces must accompany this
T .00mm
notation.)
T .08mm (T .003) This tolerance will normally require buffing, facing, grinding or a similar operation.
T .40mm (T .016) This tolerance will normally require precision die trimming, buffing or extremely accurate trimming.
(T .032) This tolerance will normally necessitate die trimming, machine trimming, tumbling, hand trimming, or tear
T .80mm
trimming.
T 1.60mm (T .063) This would be the normal tear trim tolerance.
T 2.35mm (T .093) This tolerance will normally require die trimming, tear trimming, or hand trimming of some type.
T∞ (T ∞) No flash limitation.

RMA MO-1 (2005) 12

 STANDARDS FOR RUBBER-TO-METAL ADHESION
Introduction
The processes of adhering rubber to metal components are
widespread techniques in the rubber industry. Generally the same
considerations and procedures are applicable for rubber to rigid
non-metallic components, but the adhesion values may be lower.
Only the broad aspects of rubber-to-metal molding are covered
here, and more precise information can be provided by the rubber
manufacturer involved.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Application
Various adhesion levels can be obtained. For instance, to obtain
adhesion on critical products, such as engine mounts, very close
controls are required, both on metal and rubber preparation. Some
products may require only enough adhesion for assembly.
The adhesion level (tear/tensile strength) is directly affected by
type of metal, surface preparation, non-metallic inserts, compound
composition, curing conditions, and type of adhesive.
Drawings should clearly state adhesion requirements and any
other factors which can explain the degree of adhesion required
and the method of testing. A clear understanding between cus-
tomer and rubber manufacturer is essential.
Methods of Obtaining Adhesion
The method most commonly used to obtain adhesion between
rubber and metallic or non-metallic components is the use of adhe-
sive cements. Prior to the use of these special adhesives, the sur-
face of the insert must be clean and free of contamination.
The inserts may be prepared by suitable methods such as
degreasing, blasting, and/or a suitable chemical treatment. When
any one of these preparatory processes is objectionable, it should
be noted on the drawing. The rubber compound is then vulcanized
to the prepared inserts to obtain the desired adhesion.
Design Factors and Limitations
a. Avoid localized stress raising irregularities.
b. Minimize edge effects. Break, coin, or otherwise eliminate
sharp edges of all metallic members covered by the rubber.
Provide fillets in the rubber at junction line with inserts where
possible.
13
Where fillets are not possible, extend the rubber beyond the
edges of the inserts which would otherwise terminate line to line
with the rubber.
c. Minimize surface roughness of metallic members in area
adjacent to adhered rubber.
d. Avoid welding a molded rubber component to a machine or
structure to prevent unnecessary heat deterioration. When
welding is mandatory, design metallic member as a heat sink
and provide for assembly techniques which will keep the
adhered rubber area of the metallic member below 150° C
(302° F).
Test Methods for Determining Adhesion Values
Adhesion testing is done in several ways, depending upon the
application and the product design. The methods recognized for
this testing are treated in full detail in ASTM Test Method D 429.
These methods are:
Method A. Rubber adhered between two parallel metal plates.
Method B. Ninety degree stripping test, rubber adhered to one
metal plate.
The above methods are used primarily for laboratory develop-
ment and testing production parts. These methods may be modi-
fied and applied as described under RMA Production Test
Methods section as follows.
RMA PRODUCTION TEST METHODS
Method A. Used where two metal surfaces, not necessarily paral-
lel, can be separated until the specified adhesion value is obtained
using the projected adhered area. The area to be considered should
be the projected active adhered working area of the smallest
metallic member, excluding fillets, overedge, and radii. Very
irregular areas are to be given special consideration.
Method B. Used where the rubber can be stripped from the entire
width of the part to obtain a specified adhesion value or where the
rubber can be cut in 25.4mm (1.0 in.) wide strips. Specimen rub-
ber thickness shall not exceed 9.5mm (.375 in.). In rubber sections
over 9.5mm (.375 in.), values should be negotiated between cus-
tomer and supplier.
RMA MO-1 (2005)
Acceptance Criteria
Looseness contiguous to the adhered areas at corners, fillets,
mold parting lines, and back-rinding will ordinarily be acceptable.
The adhesion strength is usually considered to be satisfactory if
the failure causes permanent distortion of a metallic member.
If the deformation of the rubber section under test far exceeds
the functional service requirements, this factor should be taken
into consideration when establishing a reasonable adhesion value.
It is recognized that conditions for adhesion will exist where a
quantitative value cannot be obtained. In these instances, it is cus-
tomary to pull the rubber from the metallic member and examine
the nature of the failure. The acceptable degree of adhesion must
be agreed upon between the customer and the rubber manufactur-
er. Customer’s test methods and fixtures should be identical with
those of the rubber manufacturer and correlation procedures estab-
lished.
METHODS OF DESIGNATING ADHESION VALUES
The design engineer when writing specifications should use a
designation to obtain suitable adhesion for the purpose intended.
Methods of testing, such as tension pull or shear pull (RMA
Production Method “A”) or 90 degree stripping (RMA Production
Method “B”) and the minimum destruction values, as well as the
design of special testing fixtures should be specified on the draw-
ings. ASTM D2000 -- SAE J200 has two types of adhesion desig-
nations for adhesion of vulcanized rubber to metal:
1. Adhesion by vulcanization, designated by K11 or K21.
2. Adhesion by the use of cements or adhesives after vulcan-
ization, designated by K31.
This section is concerned only with K11 and K21.

Table 8 - RMA Drawing Designation for Rubber-To-Metal Adhesion Classification

Drawing
Designation

B1 Production 100% tested to 70% of the minimum destruction values as noted in Table 9, Method A only.
(Specify method and In addition, sample parts tested to destruction must exceed the minimum destruction values as noted in
grade from Table 9.) Table 9. (Specify Method A or Method B and Grade.)

B2
(Specify method and Sample parts tested to destruction must exceed the minimum destruction values as noted in Table 9.
grade from Table 9.)
Rubber to be adhered to metal. This designation would ordinarily be used on products where adhesion is
B3
not critical to product function.

B4 Mechanical attachment only. Rubber is not adhered to metal.

B5 Products requiring special consideration.

As an illustration of the above drawing designation, see Example 4 in the Summary of RMA Drawing Designations on page 3.

RMA MO-1 (2005) 14

 Table 9 - RMA Drawing Designation for Minimum Adhesion Destruction Values

Method A
Drawing S.I. USA Customary
Designation Metric Units Units

Grade 1 2.8 MPa 400 psi

1.75 MPa For rubber compounds 250 psi

over 10.5 MPa (1500 psi)
tensile strength and 50 or
greater hardness (SHORE “A”)
Grade 2
1.4 MPa For rubber compounds 200 psi
under 10.5 MPa (1500 psi)
tensile strength or under 50
hardness (SHORE “A”)

Grade 3 0.35 MPa 50 psi

Method B
Drawing S.I. USA Customary
Designation Metric Units Units

Grade 1 16 KN/m width 90 lbs./in. width

9 KN/m width For rubber compounds 50 lbs./in. width

over 10.5 MPa (1500 psi)
tensile strength and 50 or
greater hardness (SHORE “A”)
Grade 2
7 KN/m width For rubber compounds 40 lbs./in. width
under 10.5 MPa (1500 psi)
tensile strength or under 50
hardness (SHORE “A”)

Grade 3 2.7 KN/m width 15 lbs./in. width

As an illustration of the above drawing designation, see Example 4 in Table 1 on page 3.

Table 9 is applicable only to RMA B1 and B2 levels shown in Table 8.
All grades of adhesion cannot be obtained with all compound classifications.
Grade 2 is similar to ASTM-SAE K11 and K21.

15 RMA MO-1 (2005)

 STANDARDS FOR STATIC AND DYNAMIC LOAD
DEFLECTION CHARACTERISTICS
Introduction
Primarily, rubber is used in place of metallic, ceramic, and
other rigid materials because it will provide a greater deflection
for a given force than these other materials. Most uses of rubber
are based upon this characteristic.
In many uses of rubber, stiffness variation is not critical to the
rubber product function and in such cases the Shore A durometer
hardness specification is sufficient.
Rubber is used as an engineering material in resilient mount-
ings, vibration isolators, dampers, impact pads and many similar
applications. Where static or dynamic stiffness characteristics
become critical to the function of the product, appropriate test
specifications must be established.
METHODS AND CONSIDERATIONS
Static Methods
When a static load-deflection specification is established for a
product, in addition to a hardness requirement, the load-deflection
specification shall supercede the hardness, should be stated on the
product drawing, and agreed upon between the customer and the
rubber manufacturer. A static test is only “static” in that the load
application comes to rest before the measurement is taken or the
rate of deflection does not normally exceed 0.8mm/s (2 in./min.).
Such a test usually places the rubber in shear or compression.
There are several ways of specifying static load-deflection charac-
teristics.
a. Specify spring rate in load per unit deflection, e.g., N/m
(lb./in.) or torque per degree, e.g. N-m/deg. (lb.-in./deg.).
b. Specify a load to deflect the product within a specified
deflection range.
c. Specify a deflection resulting in a load within a specified
load range.
Dynamic Methods
Applications where rubber is used as vibration isolators are
dependent upon the behavior of the rubber under dynamic operat-
ing conditions.
Rubber is stiffer dynamically than in a static mode; and, since
the static to dynamic stiffness ratio varies with individual com-
pounds, it may be advisable to specify the dynamic characteristics
of the rubber for such applications.
When dynamic stiffness or spring rate is specified, and is criti-
cal to the rubber product performance, the complete conditions
and methods of measurement must be established between cus-
tomer and rubber manufacturer.
RMA MO-1 (2005)
There are several methods of dynamic testing:
a. Steady State Resonance
b. Free Decay Resonance
c. Steady State Non-Resonant
d. Rebound Evaluation
FACTORS AFFECTING STATIC AND DYNAMIC
LOAD DEFLECTION CHARACTERISTICS
Age
The aging of rubber compounds over a period of time is a com-
plex process. The normal net effect of aging is an increase in mod-
ulus or stiffness. The magnitude of this change is dependent upon
the specific material involved and the environmental conditions.
Short term age, in the sense of the minimum number of hours
which should elapse between molding and evaluation, is also a
significant factor. Depending upon the nature of the product, the
minimum period will vary from 24 hours to 168 hours.
Dynamic History
The load-deflection characteristics of a rubber product are
affected by the work history of that specific product. The initial
loading cycle on a new part, or a part that has been in a static state
for a period of time, indicates a stiffer load-deflection characteris-
tic than do subsequent cycles. In static testing this effect becomes
stabilized and the load-deflection characteristics normally become
repeatable after two to four conditioning cycles.
In dynamic testing, the conditioning period is normally select-
ed as the time required to obtain reproducible results.
Temperature
Temperature has an effect on spring rate -- the higher the tem-
perature the lower the spring rate, and the lower the temperature
the higher the spring rate of a rubber product not under continuous
tension.
Test Conditions
The following details must be defined by the product drawing,
or referenced specification, to ensure relevant and consistent prod-
uct performance evaluation:
a. Mode of Test
1. Tension, Shear or Compression. A schematic diagram
depicting product orientation is highly desirable. The spring
rate in the compression mode is always higher than the spring
rate in the shear mode.
2. Static or Dynamic
The dynamic spring rate is always higher than the static spring
rate.
16
b. Test Level and Control Mode
1. Static testing load level or level of deformation, together
with the appropriate limits on deflection or limits of loading in
response to deformation, shall be stated.
2. Dynamic load levels shall be identified by a plus (+) value
for downward forces and a negative (-) value for upward
forces. Dynamic tests utilizing deformation control shall be
specified by double amplitude (total amplitude) values.
c. The amount and direction of preload, if required.
d. The linear or angular rate of loading or cyclic frequency.
e. The nature and number, or duration, of conditioning cycles
required prior to the test cycle or test period.
f. The ambient test temperature and the period of time the product
is held at test temperature prior to evaluation.
g. When the requirements are stated as “Spring Rate” the location
on the load-deflection chart at which the tangent is drawn, or the
load levels between which an average is taken, must be indicated.

METHODS OF DESIGNATING STATIC & DYNAMIC TOLERANCES

When applicable, the design engineer must specify load-deflection, spring rate, method of test and load-deflection tolerances. Table
10 presents standards for the three drawing designations for load-deflection tolerances. If damping, characteristics are required as a part
of a dynamic specification, commercial tolerances would be ±25% on parts up through 65 durometer hardness (SHORE A) and ±30%
for above 65 durometer hardness (SHORE A).

Table 10 - RMA Drawing Designations for Load-Deflection Tolerance

Tolerance Range Tolerance Range
Drawing
Durometer Rubber Wall Thickness Rubber Wall Thickness
Designation
Hardness 6mm (0.25 in.) or over under 6mm (0.25 in.)

65 Durometer ±10% ±15% Very high precision.

Hardness (Shore A) This close tolerance
or below should only be
D1 requested in unusual
circumstances.
Above 65 Durometer ±15% ±20%
Hardness (Shore A)

65 Durometer ±11% to ±14% ±16% to ±20%

Hardness (Shore A)
or below
D2
Precision
Above 65 Durometer ±16% to ±19% ±21% to ±26%
Hardness (Shore A)

65 Durometer ±15% ±20%

Hardness (Shore A)
or below
D3
Commercial
Above 65 Durometer ±20% ±25%
Hardness (Shore A)

17 RMA MO-1 (2005)

 STANDARDS FOR PACKAGING
When a rubber part is packaged, it is for the sole purpose of
transportation from the supplier to the user. Packaging usually
causes some distortion of the rubber part which, if used in a rea-
sonable length of time, does not permanently affect the part.
However, when rubber parts are held in a distorted position for a
prolonged period of time, permanent set may cause permanent dis-
tortion and result in unusable parts. Any product on which distor-
tion may make the part unusable should be specified and packaged
by such methods as will prevent distortion. However, such meth-
ods are sometimes costly and should not be specified unless
absolutely necessary. When distortion is a problem, the product
should be removed from the container when received and stored
on shelves or in a manner to preserve usability. Packaging is a
complex area and should be given serious consideration. Table 11
at right is to be considered only as a guide. Special packaging
problems should be considered between purchaser and supplier.
RMA MO-1 (2005)
Table 11 - Packaging
Drawing
Designation
This class of product will be packaged to elimi-
nate all possible distortion during transportation
P1 and storage. This may require special boxes, car-
tons, forms, cores, inner liners, or other special
methods.
This class of product will be packaged in corru-
gated containers or boxes. The quantity of the
product packaged per container will be held to an
P2
amount which will not crush the lower layers
from its own weight, but no forms, cores, inner
liners, etc., are necessary.
This class of product will be packaged in corru-
gated paper containers, boxes, crates, burlap bags
or bundles, or on skids and pallets. This is the
P3
most economical method of packaging but may
also produce the greatest distortion in the prod-
uct.
18